{"id":303,"date":"2026-07-07T12:45:47","date_gmt":"2026-07-07T12:45:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stokveltalk.co.za\/?p=303"},"modified":"2026-07-07T12:45:47","modified_gmt":"2026-07-07T12:45:47","slug":"how-to-choose-a-financial-adviser-for-your-journey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stokveltalk.co.za\/?p=303","title":{"rendered":"How to choose a financial adviser for your journey"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Bertie Nel, Head of Financial Planning and Advice at Momentum<\/em><\/p>\n

Most South Africans know they need a financial adviser, but few know from the outset how to choose the right one. As a result, consumers often focus on cost rather than on the adviser\u2019s professional status, experience, and track record.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s important to note that there is no direct, upfront cost associated with appointing or choosing a financial adviser; their ongoing commission or advice fees are factored into the pricing structure of the financial solutions available to you. Because the cost is built into the solution, the decision should never focus on finding the “cheapest” option. Instead, it should be about finding a partner who delivers genuine, tangible value.<\/p>\n

At a time when consumers have to make increasingly complex choices, navigating this decision with clarity can have a profound impact on your long-term financial outcomes.<\/p>\n

The value of an advice-led journey<\/strong><\/p>\n

Financial advice should never be treated as a once-off, transactional event of buying a policy or signing an investment contract. Instead, it\u2019s an ongoing partnership that shifts as your life does.<\/p>\n

An advice-led approach focuses entirely on your needs at specific life stages and your long-term objectives. A structured financial plan influences client outcomes by keeping you anchored during market volatility and ensuring your portfolio adapts to major milestones. In your early career, for example, income protection and basic savings could be important considerations. As your family grows, you may want to include education savings. As your career progresses, building wealth, a sustainable income in retirement and estate planning could deserve closer attention.<\/p>\n

Throughout these phases, an adviser serves as an objective strategist, helping you weigh options, manage risk, and maintain the discipline required to build lasting wealth.<\/p>\n

Look for FPI accreditation<\/strong><\/p>\n

When evaluating a professional, consumers often place emphasis on specific academic qualifications. While academic and technical degrees can be considered, the absolute baseline requirement to look for in a financial adviser should be professional recognition and regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n

Look for an adviser accredited and registered with the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI). FPI registration is a compulsory benchmark for financial planning professionals in South Africa, ensuring the adviser also adheres to a strict continuous professional development (CPD) framework annually and a binding code of ethics. This registration is your assurance that the adviser has the current knowledge required to guide you.<\/p>\n

Knowing your numbers: The ultimate reality check<\/strong><\/p>\n

Good advice is relative, which means labelling financial advice as simply “good” or “bad” misses the point. The success of an advisory relationship depends on your willingness to be completely transparent.<\/p>\n

To get the most out of an adviser, clients must know their own numbers. Before your first meeting, map out your baseline realities and timeline horizons:<\/p>\n